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Funding from the People's Postcode Lottery is helping spread the message, PDSA said.

PDSA is educating pet owners about the phenomenon of pets eating strange objects - known as "pica" - and how to keep their animals safe.

Ms Hermit said: "Pets like to use their mouth to investigate objects as well as to eat. Puppies and younger pets will often swallow an item by mistake, even though they had only meant to investigate it.

"Something like corn on the cob might seem harmless enough but if an object moves along the digestive system, as it did with Sam, it can cause a tear or life-threatening blockage.

"If you have pets at home, try to keep anything dangerous or easy to swallow out of paws' reach. Only let them play with suitable pet toys and try to supervise them to avoid any accidents. If you do suspect your pet has swallowed something you should contact your vet for advice immediately."